The LOOP Safari Gravel Series has strengthened its environmental conservation efforts after cyclists planted 100 trees during the third leg of the 2026 series held in Vipingo, Kilifi County.
The latest activity brings the number of trees planted through the series this year to 3,500, while cumulative tree planting across the three editions has surpassed 7,000 trees.
LOOP DFS Chief Executive Officer Erick Muriuki said the initiative demonstrates the series’ commitment to combining sporting experiences with environmental conservation and community impact.
The Vipingo event brought together elite cyclists from across East Africa, as well as amateur and recreational riders, who competed in 105-kilometre, 55-kilometre and 30-kilometre races.
Uganda’s Jordan Schleck and Mary Aleper successfully defended their respective titles in the men’s and women’s 105km elite races.
Schleck retained the men’s title after completing the course in 3:31:59. Kenya’s Bernard Njoroge finished second in 3:36:44, while Billy Mangwana was third in 4:08:07.
In the women’s 105km race, Aleper won in 4:42:24, ahead of Kenya’s Alice Miring’u, who clocked 5:24:19. Mercy Eregae finished third in 5:51:51.
The 55km races produced closely contested finishes. Lance Kangangi won the men’s race in 2:45:50, edging Aarif Mohamed by one second, while James Njagu finished third in 2:46:25.
Jecinta Wanjiru also secured a narrow victory in the women’s 55km race, finishing in 3:19:08, one second ahead of Jecinta Njoki. Joy Ismael was third.
Peter Kamonye won the men’s 30km race in 1:40:24, while Nadia Ibrahimji claimed the women’s title in 1:46:25.
In the team competition, Black Mamba emerged victorious and received KSh125,000. Ariya Finergy Solar Vortex finished second with KSh100,000, while Team Joy Riders took third place and KSh70,000.
The Vipingo round followed the opening leg in Limuru and the second round in Naivasha.
The final leg of the 2026 LOOP Safari Gravel Series is scheduled for October in Naivasha, with riders expected to vote on and select the venue for the finale.
LOOP said it will continue integrating sustainability, community engagement and cycling into the series as it expands its environmental and sporting impact.